Medical therapy is the first and most common line of defense in managing glaucoma. Its goal is singular: to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) to a level that halts or significantly slows optic nerve damage.
How do eye drops work?
Medications to lower intraocular pressure are divided into several classes (such as PGAs, beta-blockers, alpha-agonists, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, etc.). Each class works through a different mechanism: some reduce the production of fluid in the ciliary body, while others work by improving and increasing the drainage of fluid out of the eye.
Personalizing the Treatment
Sometimes, to achieve the target pressure, a combination of mechanisms is required. Today, there are many combination medications containing two active ingredients in a single bottle, which simplifies the treatment routine, improves compliance, and reduces exposure to preservatives (like BAK) that can cause eye irritation. Prof. Leshno emphasizes tailoring medications to achieve maximum efficacy with minimal local or systemic side effects.